This is a web-based activity using satellite images of the Gulf of Maine and the Carribean Sea. Students are asked to examine satellite data of sea surface temperatures. From this data they are to determine the temperature scale and how temperature differences are indicated. They also examine phytoplankton density images to determine where high phytoplankton densities are. Additional activities are ... Full description.

This document describes the functions and values of wetlands, and includes keywords and illustrations. Wetlands have received wastewater discharges from many different situations in the past, but only recently have they been recognized as potentially cost-efficient treatment systems. They can effectively remove or convert large quantities of pollutants from point sources (municipal and industrial ... Full description.

This site is maintained by the Digital Learning Center for Microbial Ecology. A Microbe Zoo and the Microbe of the Month are included. The site provides some background material on many different types of Microbes, in ponds, around the deep sea vents, and various other locations. Two water regions are represented on the site, although mention is made of several others. Full description.

This site provides information on several microscopic marine algae which are toxic to humans. Examples include Alexandrium, Dinophysis, Pseudo-nitzschia multiseries, and Domoic acid. Full description.

This site was created by a group of fourteen students as a combined project between Utah State University's "Academic Adventures" and the Mount Logan Middle School "Celebrate Youth" Program as part of a class called "Take-it-Outside." It provides a good overview of wetlands at a level that is appropriate for young people and the general public. Individual sections cover types of wetlands, habitats, ... Full description.

It is a miracle that life can survive in the extreme conditions of the desert. Users can learn about mammals (including wolves), insects and spiders, fish and birds(including hawks), and reptiles and amphibians (including rattlesnakes) that have adapted and, in fact, thrive in the harsh desert ecosystems. Links to related topics such as animal survival in the desert and animal rescues are included. ... Full description.

Desert plants have adapted to the extremes of heat and aridity by using both physical and behavioral mechanisms, much like desert animals. The ingenuity and variety of these many adaptations are explored in a set of links to wildflowers, cacti and succulents, trees, shrubs, and grasses. Links to related topics such as desert plant survival, wildflower articles, and others are also included. Full description.

This slide show explores the threats to the Chinook salmon population in the Stillaguamish River watershed of Snohomish County, Washington. Topics include the status of the present population, factors contributing to the decline of the population, habitat needs for healthy salmon, and steps that are necessary for the recovery of the population. Full description.

This inquiry-based, classroom activity explores the impact of climate change and variability on forests. It focuses on the impact of climate change on a sugar maple farm in New England. The scenario invites students to examine higher-level issues of climate variability and change by creating a practical, scientifically-sound model to address specific points of a localized socioeconomic situation. Full description.

This Web site contains a 22 lessons that focus on studying the biosphere from space to teach students about the Earth system. Full description.